From Ruger, new MAX-9 micro-compact pistol

The MAX-9 is a 9mm striker-fired, polymer framed pistol designed for concealed carry.

Another fierce competitor enters the hot market of compact and sub-compact everyday carry pistols – or EDCs for short: Ruger has just unveiled its new MAX-9, “a  pistol with all the features of a full-sized handgun in a size that is comfortable for everyday carry,” according to the manufacturer's claim. 

The MAX-9 features a tritium fiber optic day/night front sight and is optic ready. Also note the 12-round extended magazine.

Chambered in 9mm Luger and featuring an alloy steel 3.2"/81 mm barrel, the Ruger MAX-9 is a striker-fired micro-compact gun with a very respectable 12+1 capacity even if It measures just 6"/152 mm long, with a slide width of less than 1"/25 mm and a weight of 18.4 oz/521 g. It has been in fact designed to fit comfortably in an inside-the-waistband holster or pocket holster, or even in a concealed carry purse.

Ruger MAX-9: available in Pro and Standard models

Rear sight is drift-adjustable. The pistol is fitted here with a 10-round magazine.

The MAX-9 construction includes a through-hardened alloy steel slide with black oxide finish, one-piece precision-machined fire control chassis and high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame. It comes with a long list if appreciable features, starting with a tritium fiber optic day/night front sight – the gun actually is optic ready for direct mounting of co-witnessed JPoint and Shield-pattern micro red dot sights. Rear sight is drift-adjustable.

The Standard models are available with an 1911-style thumb safety, while Pro models (like the one in the image) are available without the external manual safety lever.

Standard models are available with a 1911-style thumb safety, while Pro models are available without the external manual safety lever. An integrated trigger safety and a loaded chamber viewport for visual confirmation of a loaded or empty chamber, are standard in all models. Magazine release is reversible.

The new Ruger carry pistol ships with two E-Nickel TeNon coated magazines: one 12- and one 10-round, or two 10-round magazines. The 12-round magazine offers a finger grip extension floorplate. Price of both the Standard and Pro models in the US is $499.

Ruger MAX-9 specs and price